Craving 'The Summer I Turned Pretty'? Similar Movies To Watch!

Hey there, fellow rom-com and coming-of-age story lovers! If you're anything like me, you've probably binged-watched The Summer I Turned Pretty and are now experiencing that familiar post-series blues. You know, that feeling where you're craving more of that dreamy summer romance, the close-knit friendships, and the inevitable love triangles. Well, fear not! Because I've compiled a list of movies like The Summer I Turned Pretty that will fill that void and transport you right back to those sun-kissed, heart-fluttering moments. We'll dive into films that capture the essence of the show, from the idyllic summer settings to the complexities of first love and self-discovery. So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and let's explore some fantastic movies that offer a similar vibe! Each movie suggestion is curated to provide you with the closest experience to The Summer I Turned Pretty.

What Makes 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' So Special?

Before we jump into the recommendations, let's quickly recap what makes The Summer I Turned Pretty such a hit. The show expertly blends a few key elements: the summertime setting, the exploration of young love, and the powerful bonds of friendship that draw viewers in. The series follows Belly, a teenage girl navigating the ups and downs of her first love experiences in a beautiful summer town. The series beautifully captures the feeling of youthful yearning, self-discovery, and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The love triangle adds a layer of drama, and the close friendships provide emotional support, as it's a core part of the narrative. The Summer I Turned Pretty resonates with viewers because it celebrates the joys and complexities of these formative years. Knowing what makes the show unique will help you understand why these recommended movies are similar.

Movies with Similar Summer Romance Vibes

1. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

To All the Boys I've Loved Before is a definite must-watch if you loved The Summer I Turned Pretty. This movie shares many similarities, mainly with its focus on teenage romance and the complexities that go along with it. The story revolves around Lara Jean Covey, whose secret love letters are accidentally sent to her crushes. It's a charming and heartwarming film that captures the innocent and exciting feeling of falling in love for the first time. The movie does a fantastic job of portraying the sweet awkwardness of young love and navigating relationships in a high school setting. With a plot full of drama and romance, viewers can expect to experience a heartwarming film.

Why it's similar: Like The Summer I Turned Pretty, To All the Boys I've Loved Before is centered on a young woman experiencing love and relationships. The film also has a sweet and romantic atmosphere that complements The Summer I Turned Pretty. Both stories are about first love and finding your way. The movie also features a love triangle that adds complexity to the story.

2. The Kissing Booth (2018)

If you're looking for more teen romance, The Kissing Booth will provide you with a similar viewing experience. This movie involves a protagonist, Elle, who has a crush on her best friend's brother. The movie is centered around the theme of love and friendship, which are key themes in The Summer I Turned Pretty. The love triangle is what drives the plot. Like The Summer I Turned Pretty, The Kissing Booth features the trials and tribulations of teen romance, with all of its awkward, fun, and dramatic moments.

Why it's similar: The Kissing Booth has the romance, friendships, and love triangle that make The Summer I Turned Pretty a success. This movie also provides a similar aesthetic in terms of setting, as The Kissing Booth is set in a high school setting and revolves around events that take place during summer. If you're looking for something with similar themes, this movie is for you!

3. Love, Simon (2018)

Love, Simon is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that offers a fresh perspective on high school romance. The film tells the story of Simon Spier, a closeted gay teenager who falls in love with an anonymous classmate online. As Simon navigates the challenges of being himself and the complexities of romance, viewers are given a heartwarming experience. The movie provides a blend of humor and heart, which makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoyed The Summer I Turned Pretty.

Why it's similar: Love, Simon provides a similar theme of first love, self-discovery, and navigating the complexities of relationships, and the movie has a focus on authentic storytelling and inclusivity, which offers a unique perspective on the typical high school romance. Love, Simon is a must-watch if you like The Summer I Turned Pretty because the movie offers a mix of humor, romance, and emotional depth.

Movies with Similar Coming-of-Age Themes

1. Eighth Grade (2018)

Eighth Grade might not have a romance at its core like The Summer I Turned Pretty, but it perfectly captures the awkwardness, insecurity, and hopefulness of growing up. The film follows Kayla Day, an eighth-grader navigating the last week of middle school. It's a realistic and sometimes cringeworthy portrayal of the challenges faced by teenagers as they strive to find their place in the world. The movie really shines in exploring themes of self-discovery, identity, and the pursuit of connection.

Why it's similar: While Eighth Grade doesn't center on romance, it does capture the same sense of emotional depth and the challenges of self-discovery that resonate in The Summer I Turned Pretty. The movie really captures what it is like to be a teenager and is a must-watch if you want to go on that journey of rediscovering the joys and pains of growing up.

2. Lady Bird (2017)

Lady Bird offers a poignant and often humorous look at the relationship between a mother and daughter during the protagonist's senior year of high school. The film follows Christine